IIMB BBA DBE FAQ: Essential Information for Students

What is the IIM Bangalore BBA (Digital Business and Entrepreneurship) [BBA(DBE)] programme?

The BBA(DBE) is a 3‑year online bachelor’s degree from IIM Bangalore that builds strong foundations in business management with a focus on digital business and entrepreneurship. The programme is fully asynchronous, designed for flexibility, and delivered by IIMB. Learn more at https://dbe.iimb.ac.in.

What makes this programme unique?

The programme offers stackable exit options (Certificate, Diploma, Degree), flexible and asynchronous online delivery, practical entrepreneurship modules, progressive digital business curriculum, and the credibility of an IIM Bangalore degree. Exams are conducted offline for academic integrity. Learn more at https://dbe.iimb.ac.in.

What opportunities does the IIMB BBA(DBE) open up after completion?

Graduates are prepared for roles across the digital business ecosystem and for entrepreneurial paths. Over three years, you gain industry‑ready skills in core management and entrepreneurship that support employment or the launch of your own venture. A short overview video is available at https://youtu.be/bTeVXLAH-lc.

Will the IIMB BBA(DBE) help me start my own business?

Yes. The curriculum is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools to prepare and plan for your own venture, including foundational management concepts and an orientation toward digital entrepreneurship.

How long do I have to finish the IIMB BBA(DBE) degree?

Once admitted, you are required to complete the bachelor’s degree within a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 6 years. Each academic year must be completed within a maximum period of two years. For detailed information on the academic structure and policies, please refer to https://dbe.iimb.ac.in/academics

What technology do I need for the IIMB BBA(DBE)?

You will need a computer or laptop with a webcam and a reliable internet connection. Access to MS Office, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Outlook is required. While videos may be viewed on certain mobile phones, some graded activities (e.g., ORAs and drag‑and‑drop tasks) are not mobile‑friendly. Google Chrome is recommended, though other browsers also work. Proctored exams require a computer/laptop with webcam and internet; End‑Term exams are conducted at designated centers across India.

Will I receive IIM Bangalore alumni status after the BBA(DBE)?

Yes. All BBA(DBE) degree holders are awarded IIM Bangalore alumni status upon successful completion of programme requirements.

Do I get access to IIM Bangalore campus facilities as a BBA(DBE) learner?

No. The BBA(DBE) is a fully online programme, and learners do not receive access to on‑campus facilities.

Can I pursue the BBA (DBE) while simultaneously enrolled in another degree programme?

Yes, You can pursue the BBA(DBE) as dual degree

Is this an IPM (Integrated Programme in Management) programme?

No, BBA(DBE) is not an IPM. It is an independent three-year undergraduate degree focused on digital business and entrepreneurship.

Is the IIMB BBA(DBE) a recognised standalone degree for exams like UPSC CSE, CAT/GMAT?

Yes. Under the Indian Institutes of Management Act, 2017, IIM Bangalore is authorised to grant degrees. The BBA(DBE) follows the official degree nomenclature and is a valid standalone degree that can be recognised for entrance examinations.

What placement or career‑support opportunities are associated with the IIMB BBA(DBE)?

Upon fulfilling all requirements, the degree is awarded by IIM Bangalore. IIMB will create a digital platform for recruiters and graduates to network and explore opportunities and will promote the programme to build industry awareness.

Whom should I contact for general programme questions about the IIMB BBA(DBE) or to schedule a call?

For programme‑related questions, write to dbeoffice@iimb.ac.in or bbadbeoutreach@iimb.ac.in. To schedule a call, use the form at https://forms.office.com (see the FAQ page link).

Does the IIM Bangalore BBA (Digital Business & Entrepreneurship) [BBA(DBE)] offer NEP‑aligned exit pathways?

Yes. The IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) follows NEP‑aligned multiple exit options. You can exit with a Certificate after Year 1 (on completing all first‑year requirements), a Diploma after Year 2 (on completing first‑ and second‑year requirements), or the full BBA(DBE) Degree after Year 3 (on completing all three years).

How is the BBA (DBE) programme structured?

Three years, each with three trimesters, totalling nine terms (numbered 1–9). Each academic year starts in September. Exams are held mostly at the end of each term. Learn more at https://dbe.iimb.ac.in/academics/

How many credits do I need to complete each year?

Each year consists of 45 credits, split across three terms. Total for the degree: 135 credits.

How many courses will I take each term?

You will typically take 17–22 courses per year, based on mix of 1.5 and 3.0 credit courses. Adjustments occur if certain subjects require more in-depth study.

When does the academic year begin?

Each academic year starts in September.

What are the exit options available?

After Year 1 (45 credits): Certificate in DBE. After Year 2 (90 credits): Diploma in DBE. After Year 3 (135 credits): Degree in DBE. Students can exit after each stage.

What is the exact degree title awarded for the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE)?

Upon successful completion of all programme requirements, IIM Bangalore awards the degree: Bachelor of Business Administration in Digital Business and Entrepreneurship.

How long does it take to complete the programme?

Minimum: 3 years. Maximum: 6 years from date of joining. Each academic year must be completed within 2 years.

What subjects and courses are covered in the programme?

Subjects include marketing, business communication, statistics, website development, digital marketing, operations management, product management, entrepreneurship, design thinking, social media, data analytics, UI/UX, and many others. Full course schedule may vary, with annual updates based on industry trends. Learn more at https://dbe.iimb.ac.in/academics/

Who teaches the courses in the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE)?

Courses are taught primarily by experienced IIM Bangalore faculty. Select sessions may be led by invited external experts. The current roster of IIMB faculty is available on the programme’s Faculty page.

How does the online IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) ensure a rich learning experience comparable to on‑campus study?

IIM Bangalore leverages a decade of IIMBx experience to deliver an engaging online experience with simulations, gamified content, real‑world cases, discussion forums, and seamless virtual delivery. The design emphasises interaction and social learning while retaining the rigour expected from IIMB.

How flexible is the weekly schedule in the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE)?

The programme is primarily online and asynchronous, so you can study at your own pace. In addition, live sessions (about 90 minutes each) are typically held ~twice a week between Monday and Saturday during evening hours (5:00 PM–8:30 PM). Recordings are provided for those who cannot attend live.

How many hours per week should I plan for the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE)?

Plan for approximately 12–15 hours of learning effort per week to engage effectively with videos, readings, activities, and assessments.

Is live‑session attendance mandatory in the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE), and does it affect grades?

You are strongly encouraged to attend the live sessions scheduled through the programme. While attendance is not currently graded, persistently low participation may lead to session‑related questions being included in graded assessments. Schedules are announced well in advance to help you plan.

Will I get to interact directly with IIM Bangalore faculty during the BBA(DBE)?

Yes. You will have opportunities to interact with faculty during the online live sessions that run regularly through the term.

Whom should I contact if I have an academic question about the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE)?

For academic questions, write to dbeoffice@iimb.ac.in or bbadbeoutreach@iimb.ac.in. For programme‑related questions, write to dbe.support@iimbx.iimb.ac.in. For admissions/application queries, write to dbeadmissions@iimb.ac.in. If you would like to schedule a call, use the official form linked from the FAQ page.

Who is eligible to apply for the BBA (DBE) programme?

Indian nationals who have completed Class 10 from a recognized board and Class 12 with a minimum of 60% marks (for General/NC-OBC/EWS candidates) or 55% marks (for SC/ST/PwD candidates) are eligible to apply. Applicants can qualify through any of the following entrance exams: IIMB Entrance Test, CUET GAT, or JEE Main.

Can international students apply?

As of now, the programme is only open to Indian nationals

When do applications open for the IIM Bangalore BBA (Digital Business & Entrepreneurship) [BBA(DBE)]?

For information about the next admission cycle for the IIM Bangalore BBA (Digital Business & Entrepreneurship) [BBA(DBE)] program, please visit https://dbe.iimb.ac.in or fill out the interest form at this link.

How do I apply to the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) programme?

To apply for the IIM Bangalore BBA (Digital Business & Entrepreneurship) [BBA(DBE)] programme, you will need to complete the online application form once the admission cycle begins. We will notify you as soon as the applications open. In the meantime, you can visit https://dbe.iimb.ac.in or fill out the interest form here to receive updates.

What is the application fee and when do I pay it?

The fee is ₹3,000 (General/NC-OBC/EWS) or ₹1,500 (SC/ST/PwD), due at application submission and non-refundable.

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

Required documents include passport photo, signature, government-issued photo/address ID, 10th and 12th mark sheets/certificates, category/PwD certificates (if applicable), and any other documents requested by admissions.

Can I edit my IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) application after I start filling it?

You can freely edit your form until it is submitted. The form is treated as ‘submitted’ only after you pay the application fee and enter the payment details before final submission. After submission, editing is not allowed.

Is the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) application fee refundable?

No. The application fee is non‑refundable under all circumstances, including cases where a fee is paid but the application is not finally submitted.

What is the IIMB DBE Entrance Test like?

The IIMB DBE Entrance Test is computer‑based exam held at offline centres and includes Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation, Logical Analytical Reasoning, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, and General Awareness. The score is valid for 15 months.

Where will the IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test be conducted for BBA(DBE) admissions?

The test is conducted at designated computer‑based centres across India. You can choose your preferred centre while applying.

Which cities host IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test centres for BBA(DBE)?

Centres are planned in Patna, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, Kolkata, Delhi, Kanpur, Lucknow, Dehradun, Jaipur, Srinagar, Mohali, Vijayawada, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ernakulam, Chennai‑South, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Nagpur, Raipur, Bhopal, and Indore.

Can I change my chosen IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test centre for BBA(DBE) after registration?

No. Test centre changes are not permitted after registration because of logistics constraints.

What if I miss the IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test for BBA(DBE) admissions?

You will need to wait for the next admission announcement and re‑apply in a future cycle.

Are physical calculators allowed in the IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test for BBA(DBE)?

No physical calculators are permitted. An on‑screen calculator will be available during the test.

Can I challenge a question from the IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test for BBA(DBE)?

Yes. You may challenge a question by paying ₹500 per question.

Will the IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test challenge fee be refunded if my challenge is accepted?

Yes. If your challenge is accepted, the ₹500 per question will be refunded and appropriate corrective action will be taken. If the challenge is not accepted, the fee is not refunded.

What is the duration and number of questions in the IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test for BBA(DBE)?

The test lasts 90 minutes and consists of 60 questions spread across the assessed sections.

How and when will I receive my IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test result for BBA(DBE)?

All communication, including test results, will be sent to your registered email address. Ensure the email ID in your application is correct; it will be used for the entire admissions process.

Is there a sectional cut‑off in the IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test for BBA(DBE)?

Yes. A sectional cut‑off is applied, subject to management discretion.

Where can I practice for the IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test for BBA(DBE)?

A sample question paper will be available on the programme website with representative questions to help you practice.

What is the fee‑payment mode for the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) application and programme?

Fees are collected term‑wise for the programme. Valid payment modes include UPI, debit/credit cards, and net‑banking.

Will I be issued an ID card for the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE)?

All registered students receive appropriate identification credentials for accessing digital resources and exam facilities.

How many intakes are there for the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) each year?

There is one intake for the current admission cycle.

Do I get access to IIM Bangalore campus facilities as an IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) student?

No. The BBA(DBE) is a fully online programme; campus facilities are not available to enrolled learners.

What is the NC‑OBC/EWS family‑income threshold for financial‑aid consideration in the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE)?

The family‑income threshold is ₹8 lakh per annum as per statutory terms.

What documents are required to claim NC‑OBC/EWS benefits for the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) admissions?

NC‑OBC: non‑creamy‑layer certificate issued by a competent authority; EWS: income certificate issued by a competent authority. Certificates must be dated on or after 01/04/2025; earlier-dated documents will be rejected and such applicants will be treated as General category.

Are CUET (UG) and JEE Main scores considered for IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) admissions?

Yes. CUET (UG) General Test (Section III) scores and JEE Main scores from Last three-year scores will be considered.

How are candidates with CUET (UG) or JEE Main scores evaluated for IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) admissions?

Candidates will be considered for the next stage based on the better of either their CUET/JEE score or their IIMB DBE Entrance Test score.

Do candidates with CUET (UG) or JEE Main scores have to take the IIM Bangalore DBE Entrance Test for BBA(DBE)?

No. Taking the entrance test is optional for candidates applying with valid CUET or JEE scores, though they may choose to take it.

Can I apply to the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) without my Class 12 marksheet? What is the last date to submit it?

Yes, you may register without entering your Class 12 details initially. However, you will be required to submit them before the deadline, which we will share later during each admission cycle.

Can I apply to the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) while awaiting CUET (UG) results? What is the last date to submit the scorecard?

Yes, you may apply without entering your CUET details initially. However, you will be required to submit them before the deadline, which we will share later during each admission cycle.

How does the selection process work?

Admission is based on performance in one of three tests:

IIMB DBE Entrance Test (≥50% General, ≥45% NC-OBC/EWS, ≥40% SC/ST/PwD)

CUET (Section III) (≥70th percentile General, ≥65th NC-OBC/EWS, ≥60th SC/ST/PwD)

JEE Main (≥50th percentile General, ≥45th NC-OBC/EWS, ≥40th SC/ST/PwD)
Best score is considered if more than one is submitted.

Is there any cutoff for CUET (UG) or JEE Main scores for IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) 2025 admissions?

Admission is based on performance in one of three tests:

IIMB DBE Entrance Test (≥50% General, ≥45% NC-OBC/EWS, ≥40% SC/ST/PwD)

CUET (Section III) (≥70th percentile General, ≥65th NC-OBC/EWS, ≥60th SC/ST/PwD)

JEE Main (≥50th percentile General, ≥45th NC-OBC/EWS, ≥40th SC/ST/PwD)
Best score is considered if more than one is submitted. https://dbe.iimb.ac.in/admissions/

How should Differently Abled (DA) candidates apply to the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE)?

DA applicants should choose DA as their primary category and provide the relevant sub‑category details and documents as required.

Are there alternative entry routes to the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) apart from the DBE Entrance Test?

Yes. You may either take the IIMB DBE Entrance Test or apply using your CUET (UG) General Test (Section III) scores or your JEE Main scores from Last three-year scores will be considered.

What if I do not have a UTR number while paying the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) fee?

UTR stands for Unique Transaction Reference, the reference number generated for payments (UPI, cards, net‑banking). If you do not have the UTR, you can enter the payment reference number from your transaction.

Whom should I contact for IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) admissions queries?

Write to dbeadmissions@iimb.ac.in. For general programme queries, contact dbeoffice@iimb.ac.in or bbadbeoutreach@iimb.ac.in. To schedule a call, use the official form linked from the FAQ page.

What is the total programme fee?

₹1,25,000 (Year 1), ₹1,50,000 (Year 2), ₹1,75,000 (Year 3). Total: ₹4,50,000. SC/ST/PwD students get a 50% waiver.

What is the fee structure for the programme?

Fees are paid per term—annual fee is divided in three. Term-wise fees: Year 1: ~₹41,660, Year 2: ₹50,000, Year 3: ~₹58,330.

How do I pay the programme fees?

Pay before the start of each term by NEFT/online transfer to IIMB’s SBI account. Details are provided at admission.

Does IIM Bangalore offer financial aid or scholarships for the BBA(DBE)?

Yes. As per statutory provisions, SC, ST, and DA candidates receive 50% financial support. NC‑OBC and EWS candidates may receive financial aid based on family income; in the last batch, support ranged between ~15–18%, with final decisions made by the institute.

What happens if I need to take a break from studies?

You must pay a ₹2,000 per-term continuation fee during breaks. Maximum three consecutive breaks (one year) allowed. Rejoin at the start of regular academic terms.

Are there additional fees I should know about?

CLA re-attempt: ₹800; Final exam re-attempt: ₹1,200; Both: ₹2,000; Re-evaluation: ₹300/request. Continuation fee for breaks: ₹2,000/term.

What is the maximum time I can take to complete the programme?

Six years from original joining date.

Can I take a break during the programme?

Yes, after completing a full term you can Maximum three consecutive terms breaks are allowed but it must be renewed after each term by paying continuation fee. You cannot take a break at mid of the term.

How much does it cost to take a break?

₹2,000 per term as a continuation/break fee.

When can I rejoin after taking a break?

Only at the start of a term (September, January, May). You will pick up from your next sequential term.

What happens to my batch identity if I take breaks?

Your batch identity is tied to your original joining date. It remains unchanged regardless of how long you take to finish.

What is the ‘Relaxed track’?

Learners who take breaks move to a slower completion timeline and may graduate after their original batchmates, but retain original batch ID.

How are assessments conducted in the IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE)?

The evaluation for the IIM Bangalore BBA (Digital Business & Entrepreneurship) [BBA(DBE)] programme follows a continuous and comprehensive assessment structure. Continuous Learning Assessments (CLA) carry a weightage of 25% and include assignments, projects, quizzes, participation in live sessions, responding to discussion forum questions, and completing feedback surveys. The remaining 75% is allotted to the final in-center examination, which may consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), caselets, or subjective assessments. However, for certain courses that do not have a final in-center exam, the entire 100% evaluation will be based on a combination of MCQs and project submissions completed on the course platform.

What is the grading system?

Letter grade scale: O (≥90), A (80–89), B (70–79), C (60–69), D (50–59), E (40–49), F (<40). Passing requires ≥40% in both CLA and final exam.

What happens if I fail a course or miss an exam?

CLAs and Final exams may be retaken up to twice for each, per course. You pay re-attempt fees as necessary.

Can I request re-evaluation of my grades?

Yes, within one week of grade release. ₹300 fee per request; response within two weeks. Max one request per subject per exam.

What happens if I need to repeat a course?

You may register for retakes in next term. Cannot take more than 30 credits of exams in any one term.

Where can I find the detailed grading policy for IIM Bangalore BBA(DBE) course?

You will receive detailed information in the Program Manual at programme start. Each course also includes its own syllabus and grading policy page that clarifies expectations and remediation options.

What technology do I need for this programme?

How are courses delivered?

Asynchronous online modules; English is the primary language. Includes video lectures, interactive discussions, group/individual projects, and industry sessions.

Where are exams conducted?

CLA components are online; final exams are in-person at designated centers across India.

Can I pursue this programme while working or studying something else?

Yes. Flexible, asynchronous format allows parallel education or work; can take breaks within the allowed limits.

Frequently Asked Questions